Should You Visit Sarajevo?

Is Sarajevo worth visiting?

Sarajevo is worth visiting for one to three days so that you can explore everything that the city has to offer. Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. While many people think of a war torn city from the 1990s, today Sarajevo is a culturally rich city with a beautiful city center and friendly people. There are still remnants of its difficult past, but the city today is filled with energy and amazing food. It's surrounded by beautiful mountains and train rides outside of town will take you through dramatic scenery.

Sarajevo

Reasons to Visit Sarajevo

Food
Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

Historical Sights
The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

Hiking
If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Museums
The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

Shopping
This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

Nightlife
After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Authenticity
Sarajevo has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Sarajevo worth visiting in the Summer?

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 26°C (78°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 32°C (89°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Sarajevo, so expect to see more tourists than usual. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.

The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. This is a great time of year to discover the nearby hiking trails, browse the museums, and enjoy the city's energy. Also, you can check out the historic old town and the nightlife.

Is Sarajevo worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Sarajevo. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during autumn, and temperatures hover around 17°C (62°F).

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to take in the beautiful scenery, browse around the old town, and spend time at the museums. Also, you'll be able to discover the big city activities and get out into nature.

Is Sarajevo worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Sarajevo. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Sarajevo can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 6°C (42°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the cuisine, and the historic old town. Also, you can experience the nightlife and the big city activities.

Is Sarajevo worth visiting in the Spring?

Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during spring, and temperatures hover around 14°C (58°F).

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Sarajevo, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

The city this time of year is absolutely beautiful. Admire the gardens, parks, and fantastic architecture, too. Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. This is a great time of year to browse the shops, wander through the museums, and take in the beautiful scenery. Also, you can admire the historic sights and dance the night away.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Sarajevo

Not As Romantic
For couples, this destination does not have a great vibe for romance compared to other places.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Sarajevo might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Sarajevo here or see if Sarajevo is expensive here.

Related

What is Sarajevo most famous for?

Sarajevo is most famous for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. People visit this impressive city for its great food, historical sights, and hiking. It's also known for museums and shopping. And many travelers come for the nightlife, as well. It is often described as historical, cultural, beautiful, overlooked, and quaint.

What is the most famous sight in Sarajevo?

The most popular sight in Sarajevo is The Old Town. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Sarajevo on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Old Town and other attractions here.

How touristy is Sarajevo? Is it a popular city to visit?

Sarajevo is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Mostar,Kravica Waterfall,Blagaj,Počitelj - Day Tour from Sarajevo: $86
• War Times Experience in Sarajevo - Half Day Tour: $32
• 4-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour with Food Tastings and Craft Experience: $43
• GRAND SARAJEVO WALKING TOUR (history, architecture and art): $24
• Sarajevo Under Siege War Half Day Tour: $49
• Sarajevo Grand Tour: Hotel Pickup And All Fee's Included: $60
• Sarajevo genuine walking tour: Steps through history: $16
• Siege of Sarajevo tour: $36

How long should I spend in Sarajevo?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Sarajevo is one to three days. Since Sarajevo has a variety of activities such as dining, historical sights, and hiking, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Sarajevo? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Sarajevo?.